DIY is part of the DNA of homebrewing. Big corporate beer doesn’t taste nearly as satisfying as our own homebrew. It may not be easier, but it’s ours. Many brewers also feel that DIY is the way to go with their equipment. DIY was a necessity in the early days, but now you can find almost anything you want pre-made online or in your local homebrew shop. Just as with jeans or leather jackets, sometimes buying is your cheapest option. Despite this, the DIY ethic is alive and well.
When it comes to kitting out your custom-built brewery, there are two factors to consider before diving in. First, you need to decide whether or not you have the skills (or want to develop the skills) to take on a given project. You should also consider whether it’s cost-effective, factoring in intangibles such as the satisfaction and learning experience.
Relatively Easy Projects
Fortunately, there are quite a few potential projects that don’t require much in the way of special skills or tools. Most of these are worthwhile, even for beginners. Here are a half dozen projects that will improve your brewing or save you some effort. In upcoming articles, we’ll delve into the specifics of each of these projects, providing instructions for building your own.